The number of Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has exceeded 7,000.

Operativ Media reports, citing local media, that according to the latest data released by Congolese authorities, 7,022 cases and 3,398 deaths have been recorded since the start of the outbreak. Meanwhile, 1,671 people have recovered from the disease.

This is considered the largest outbreak of the Ebola virus. The disease was first detected in Ituri province in the northeast of the country, later spreading to the eastern and northern regions.

Earlier this week, it was confirmed that the Ebola virus had also spread to South Ubangi province, which borders the Central African Republic and Congo. Thus, the disease has now been recorded in seven provinces.

The detection of Ebola cases in schools in Ituri province has raised concerns among parents and healthcare workers.

The current outbreak is reported to be caused by the Bundibugyo strain. There is currently no approved vaccine or treatment for this strain.